Reasons for Procedure

Healthy joints contain synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates and provides nutrients to the joints. One change that happens with OA is the synovial fluid becomes thinner and less useful as a lubricant for the joint.

With viscosupplementation, hyaluronic acid, which is found in synovial fluid, is injected into the knee joint. This makes the synovial fluid act as a better lubricant. It is hoped that this will reduce pain and improve function of the joint. In some cases, getting this injection may help to postpone surgery on the knee joint.

Viscosupplementation may be a good option if you have tried other types of treatment and these have failed.

Ask you if you have any allergies to the ingredients in the hyaluronic acid product

If you are taking any prescription medications, over-the-counter products, or herbs and supplements, talk to your doctor. There could be an interaction with the injection.

Description of the Procedure

First, your doctor will clean the skin where the needle will be inserted. A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. If you have swelling in the knee joint, the doctor will use a needle to remove the excess fluid. Next, a needle will be used to inject the hyaluronic acid into the joint. If needed, both knees can be done at the same appointment.

While your schedule for receiving injections will vary depending on the brand, you may have a cycle of three injections (eg, on days 1, 8, and 15) or just one. You may need to go through injections more than once. In some cases, it can relieve pain for months to years.

How Long Will It Take?

The procedure usually takes a few minutes to do.

Will It Hurt?

You may feel the prick of the needle. Right after the injection, you may have some mild pain, warmth, and swelling around the knee joint.

Post-procedure Care

At Home

When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Apply ice to your knee to reduce swellng and pain.

Avoid straining your knee for the first couple of days. Do not stand for a long time or do strenuous activity, like heavy lifting.

As you go through the injection cycles, you may have:

Less knee pain

Improved mobility

Call Your Doctor

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, bleeding, or discharge from the injection site

Signs of allergic reaction

Increased pain or swelling in the knee joint

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.